EU Commission proposes 90 percent emissions cut by 2040
- The European Commission has proposed a binding 90 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
- This climate target is a crucial step toward the EU's goal of climate neutrality by 2050.
- Negotiations among EU countries and the European Parliament will determine the final details and feasibility of the proposed climate target.
On July 1, 2025, the European Commission unveiled its ambitious climate target proposing a 90 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2040 from 1990 levels. This proposal comes as the EU aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, ensuring that greenhouse gas emissions are balanced by what can be naturally or technically absorbed. Currently, member states are obligated to reduce emissions by 55 percent by 2030. The announcement is significant as it prepares the EU for its commitments linked to the United Nations' Paris Agreement and addresses growing concerns over climate issues exacerbated by recent heatwaves across Europe. Moreover, the proposal includes mechanisms to allow some flexibility in achieving these new targets. EU countries would be able to utilize carbon credits from non-EU countries, accounting for up to 3 percent of the overall reduction by 2036. While some EU leaders have expressed support for flexibility as a pragmatic approach, critics argue that it undermines the strength of the climate goals. The German government had previously called for such flexibility, signaling a divide among member states regarding the best paths forward in climate action. Commission Vice-President Teresa Ribera emphasized the balance of economic and environmental considerations, stating the EU is committed to a competitive green transition. However, criticism from various quarters highlights concerns that this flexibility could dilute significant efforts toward genuine emission reductions. Overall, the proposal marks a critical juncture for EU climate policy that will require thorough negotiation among member states and the European Parliament before implementation. As the EU prepares for the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP30, in Brazil this November, the urgency of these discussions is apparent. EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra expressed optimism about reaching an agreement on the proposed 2040 target in time for the conference. The successful negotiation of these climate goals will have far-reaching implications for the future of the European Union's environmental and economic landscape, particularly in light of the rising global temperatures and the urgency for comprehensive climate action.